Indian Cabinet’s move to protect politicians convicted of crimes presents a sorry state of affairs in the largest democracy of the world. The Congress-led government’s move is purely based on political expediency. The decision shows how desperate the ruling party is to cling to power. That is why they are moving ahead with this unjust bill just to please their allies so as to secure more seats in the upcoming general elections.
Such moves create unrest among the masses and are in sharp contrast to the norms of justice. If the president promulgates the ordinance by signing the bill, it will be dark day in the history of India.
By doing so our politicians will be setting a bad precedence and it will further deteriorate the political climate of the country. We are already sick and tired of corrupt politicians, who just join politics to serve their own interests. With such laws in place, the situation will aggravate. We, Indians, need politicians with integrity and education so as to lead this great nation to new heights. Instead of purging politics of such criminal elements, we are trying to protect them so that after assuming power they could go on a plundering spree.
Corruption in politics is an open secret and the current government’s move shows that it is turning a blind eye to a menace that is plaguing this great country. This reminds me of a similar move in neighboring Pakistan, the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO). That, itself was very funny and unjust still it did not envisage protection of convicts. In Pakistan’s case it is understandable as democracy in that country has yet to take roots. But, our politicians have gone a step further, they are willingly allowing criminals in their midst.
I believe, we Indians, should move out of our comfort zones and do something about it, the Gandhian way. Social media could prove to be very useful. I also urge the president not to sign this unjust and undemocratic bill. — Rajesh Sethi, Riyadh
Shielding corrupt politicians
